Billy Ray McCoy

Born on November 14, 1937, to the late Lonnie J. and Ruby L. Harkey McCoy, Billy Ray was a lifelong Union County native who was formerly from Wesley Chapel and was currently residing in the New Salem District of Marshville. In 1960, he was drafted into the military, serving in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Germany, as a crane operator. He was honorably discharged in 1962. In 1967, Billy Ray married Lillian Smith whom he credited as saying many times that she was the love of his life and the best thing that had ever happened to him. Regarding work, Billy Ray was a heavy equipment operator for over 55 years. He also built manhole utilities and was even a carpenter who built his own house. Billy Ray also had many interests and hobbies in his life including being an avid fisherman and gardener, loving to grill steaks, watching NASCAR racing, and beer making. After suffering a stroke in 2015, he slowed down but was still able to mow outside and enjoyed it. Before his marriage and even shortly after, Billy Ray loved to go dirt track racing on his motorcycle and even drag raced several of his cars. One of his most important enjoyments however was being with his family, particularly his grandchildren, whom he loved to take fishing. Billy Ray was also a Baptist.

Along with his parents, Billy Ray is preceded in death by his wife, Lillian S. McCoy; brothers, James McCoy and Max McCoy; and sister, Katherine Winchester. He is survived by his sons, Douglas McCoy and Darrell McCoy; grandchildren, Kyle McCoy and Allen McCoy; sister, Kay Baker; daugher-in-law, Julie McCoy; and brother-in-law, Greg Baker.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, February 9, 2025, from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm at McEwen Funeral Home of Monroe, located at 204 South Main Street, Monroe, North Carolina. Funeral services to celebrate his life will be held on Monday, February 10, 2025, at 1:00 pm at the McEwen Colonial Chapel with Pastor Jeff Whitecotton officiating. Burial with military honors will immediately follow the service at Lakeland Memorial Park.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mcewenmonroechapel.com for the McCoy family.

McEwen Funeral Home of Monroe is honored to serve the family of Billy Ray McCoy.